The 2021 Nutrien Classic - a leading campdraft and performance-horse sale - is under way at AELEC.
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Commencing on Friday and finishing on Sunday week, the event will see an increase in cash and prizes, an additional day and the implementation of strict COVID-safe measures.
The annual event lures horse handlers and visitors nationwide.
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Nutrien's Mark Barton said the event was a social and economic highlight and one of the highest revenue-generating events for the performance-horse industry.
He said 2019 was one of the hardest years for breeders, trainers, vendors and competitors due to the lingering effects from the North Queensland floods, the ongoing impact of widespread drought and the devastation of bushfires.
Despite that, 2020 was the Classic's highest-grossing sale, he said.
"The Classic is crucial to the Performance Horse Industry, and with the cancellation of the majority of campdraft and sales in 2020 due to COVID-19, our team was determined to do whatever it took to ensure the event could go ahead to give the industry a platform to do what they love and make some money while doing it," he said in a statement.
Since its inception 14 years ago, the Classic has continued to grow and bolster the sector, Nutrien Equine said.
It has generated more than $35 million in performance-horse sales, boasted some of the highest-quality competition and prizes, drawn visitors from all over Australia and gained international interest, Nutrien Equine added.
Attracting high-class competition, the campdraft will make up the first six days of the Classic in 2021 - a year that will see an increase to cash and prizes, with $360,000 up for grabs, Nutrien Equine said, making it the highest-paying campdraft in Australia.
Barton said the sale was also a major drawcard and provided a huge boost to many businesses and livelihoods.
